Moving to a new home can be an exciting but stressful time. Packing up your belongings properly is key to ensuring items arrive safely at your new place. Dishes and other kitchen items are especially prone to breaking during a move, so extra care must be taken when packing them. Follow these tips to learn how to properly pack dishes for moving.

Supplies You’ll Need for Packing Dishes

Before you start wrapping and packing dishes, make sure you have the right supplies on hand. Having these items readily available will make the process quicker and easier.

Moving boxes – You’ll need an ample supply of sturdy moving boxes specifically designed for dishes and fragile items. Avoid using overly large boxes since heavy stacks can crush items on the bottom.
Bubble wrap – Bubble wrap is perfect for gently wrapping dishware. Make sure you have plenty of sheets in various sizes.
Packing paper or newsprint – For lining boxes and wrapping items. Folded paper helps cushion stacks of dishes.
Tape – For sealing boxes. Use strong packing tape or reinforced tape for a more secure closure.
Permanent marker – To label boxes by room for easier unpacking. Labeling as you pack helps keep things organized.
Furniture pads – These soft pads can be used to cushion the bottom of boxes. They prevent slipping too.
Packing peanuts – Styrofoam peanuts fill empty spaces around dishes to limit shifting.

With these supplies gathered, you’ll be set to start packing dishes properly.

Steps for Packing Dishes

Packing dishes for moving takes time and care. Follow these key steps to safely pack boxes:

Choose Appropriate Boxes

Select sturdy boxes designed for dishes and breakables. Avoid flimsy or thin boxes prone to collapsing.
Make sure boxes are clean and free of debris before packing. You don’t want to contaminate dishes and glassware.
Pick box size based on contents. Dishes should fit snugly without excess room.
For heavy items like plates, smaller boxes around medium-size prevent bottoms from giving out.

Protect Bottoms of Boxes

Cushion the bottom of boxes before adding any dishes. This protects against stress points that could poke through.
Use furniture pads, packing paper, bubble wrap, or several layers of newsprint to line the bottom.

Wrap Each Item Individually

Wrap each dish and piece of glassware separately in packing paper or bubble wrap. Use appropriate sizes for a tight fit.
Make sure edges and rims are well protected. Wrap so items don’t slide around in the box.
Pack glasses facing down and dishes facing up to avoid slipping and rattling around.
Don’t just toss silverware into boxes. Wrap each piece or bundle in packing paper to prevent scratches.

Arrange Dishes Vertically

Pack plates, bowls, and other dishware vertically on their edges for maximum support.
Placenested bowls or cups inside each other for efficient packing. Just wrap rims for protection.
Alternate direction of dishes as you stack. Stand some vertically and lay others flat to add stability.

Pack Heavier Items on Bottom

Pack heavier dishes like stoneware plates or ceramic serving platters on the bottom.
Lighter glassware and fragile items go on top. Prevent heavier things from sliding down and breaking lighter dishes.
Bottom medium-sized boxes with plates and pack glasses layered above.

Fill Empty Spaces

Pack dishes tightly together without wasted space. Loose items shift and break more easily.
Fill gaps with packing peanuts, balled up paper, or other padding to limit movement.
Don’t overstuff boxes to the point of bulging. But eliminate empty pockets.

Seal Boxes Securely

Once full, seal boxes up completely with reinforced packing tape. Wrap the entire box perimeter for security.
Make sure box flaps and seams are tightly taped so nothing pops open in transit.
Reinforce the bottoms with extra tape stripes where boxes endure the most pressure.

With dishes and fragile kitchenware properly wrapped and packed vertically in sturdy boxes, your items are prepped for a safe moving trip!

Packing Other Kitchen Items

While dishes require the most care, smart packing of other kitchen possessions also ensures they survive the move damage-free.

Glassware

Glasses are especially prone to chipping and breaking.

Each glass should be individually wrapped in soft paper or bubble wrap. Wrap the entire glass, including the base and stemware.
Alternate direction when stacking glasses to prevent sticking and provide stability.
Fill in gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent sliding and banging together.

Pots and Pans

Use padding to avoid dents and scuffs with pots and pans:

Place a sheet of packing paper, bubble wrap, or small towel between each item to provide a buffer.
For pan lids and bakeware, wrap thoroughly and pack together vertically like plates.
Nest pots inside one another, with padding in between, to save space.
Pack heavy cast iron in the bottom of boxes.

Utensils and Gadgets

Knives, spatulas, strainers, and other utensils each need individual care:

Wrap sharp utensils like knives separately to avoid damage and injury. Mark boxes containing knives.
Group like items together, like spatulas and serving spoons, and wrap as sets in packing paper.
Stuff small gaps in boxes with paper or bubble wrap to keep gadgets contained in transit.

Plastic Containers

Prevent dings anddeformation of plastic containers:

Since plastic is more flexible, wrap each container with a couple layers of paper or single bubble wrap sheet.
Pack lids facing down stacked on top of their containers. The snap-on lids prevent slipping.
If possible, pack rigid plastic containers with other hard items like dishes or glasses for balanced stacking.

With your kitchen possessions properly wrapped and packed, transport will go smoothly!

Tips for Packing Dishes in Small Moves

Moving just across town in a small apartment? You can still safely move dishware with just a few simplifications:

For local moves under 15 miles, boxes don’t necessarily have to be new. Just inspect for damage and reinforce with tape.
Instead of packing paper, reusable options like towels, t-shirts, or blankets can wrap dishes. Just pad thickly.
Pack in small batches as you use up dishes in final days before the move. Moving already clean dishes prevents unpacking extra boxes.
Transport boxes yourself in your own car if a moving truck isn’t required. You can personally monitor their gentle handling.
Unpack dishes as soon as possible. Short moves mean less time dishes spend in boxes, limiting chances of breaking.

The same packing principles apply to small moves. Items still need individual wrapping and tight packing without shifting. You may just be able to streamline supplies.

What to Avoid When Packing Dishes

While packing dishes, steer clear of these common packing mistakes:

Packing loose dishes with no wrapping or dividers results in chips, cracks, and breakage.
Overfilling boxes stresses their bottoms. Not fully sealing boxes allows items to spill out.
Pointed items like knives loosely tossed together can poke through paper and damage other dishes and boxes.
Dishes packed horizontally rattle around and break rather than standing vertically for maximum support.
Using flimsy boxes like fruit or liquor store boxes that collapse under the dishes’ weight.
Skipping padding on the box bottom leads to dishes poking through weak spots.
Leaving empty gaps in boxes allows dishes to shift and bump during transport.
Fragile glassware packed under heavy dishware gets crushed from weight shifting downward.

By avoiding these dish packing mistakes, you can move your kitchen items successfully!

Best Practices for Unpacking Dishes

Once you’re all moved into the new home, unpacking dishes requires continued care. Follow these tips for safely unpacking your dishware:

Inspect boxes for damage before unpacking. If heavily crushed or punctured, items inside may be compromised.
Unpack in a carpeted area if possible, so if items drop they have a soft landing. Have towels handy to cushion just in case.
Remove dishes vertically piece by piece, keeping padding wrapped until each item is secure on a shelf or in a cabinet.
Place any unpacking trash like paper directly into a bin so it doesn’t litter new floors and counters.
Check for small items sticking to padding like stray fork tines and stray crystal knick-knacks. Don’t accidentally discard anything.
Examine each piece for damage like chips or cracks that may have happened in transit.
Wash dishes before using to remove any dust or debris acquired during the move. Use soft dishcloths to avoid any new scratches.
Allow dishes time to acclimate to the temperature and humidity in your new home before rushing to stock cabinets.

With each dish treated with care during unpacking, you can start enjoying dining in your new home.

Common Questions about Packing Dishes for Moving

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about packing up dishware for moving:

Should I pack my everyday dishes first?

It’s smart to use up dishes in your normal rotation during the weeks leading up to a move. Washing and packing away daily dishes you no longer need eliminates some unpacking work later. Sturdy everyday dishes also make good bottom layers in boxes.

How do I safely move fragile heirloom dishes?

Heirlooms and antiques require extremely gentle care. Wrap each piece separately in soft cloth then bubble wrap. Use small boxes filled with packing peanuts that move with you rather than going on a truck. Transport fragile items yourself; don’t let movers handle.

Is it okay to bundle silverware together?

While forks and spoons can nest together, bundle them securely in small groups. Use padding in between to prevent scratches. Knives should always be wrapped separately with padding at the blade tips. Mark boxes containing knives.

Should glassware go in the same boxes as dishes?

It’s best to keep glassware separate from heavier dishware since the weight can shift and break them. But if you do combine, add plenty of crumpled paper to cushion glasses from hard surfaces. Just take care to balance weight distribution.

How do I pack odd-shaped items like ladles and cutting boards?

Wrap awkwardly shaped utensils and items individually before packing together. Use balled up packing paper to wedge in gaps and prevent shifting. Stand ladles and spatulas handle-side up. Layer cutting boards flat like plates or prop diagonally.

How do I prevent moisture damage on a long-distance move?

On long moves over 400 miles where boxes will be in transit for over two days, take extra drying precautions. Air out glassware and dishes for a couple days before packing. Add 1-2 desiccant packs in each box to absorb excess moisture.

With careful packing techniques tailored to your specific moving situation and dishes, you can ensure all your belongings arrive safely. Follow these guidelines on properly packing dishes when moving into your new home. Let the unpacking and meal making begin in your new kitchen!

How to Unpack Dishes after Moving

After a stressful move,setting up your new kitchen may seem daunting. Unpacking stacks of fragile dishes you just finished packing seems particularly overwhelming. However, methodically unpacking your dishware with care doesn’t have to be painful. Follow these tips for smoothly transitioning your dinnerware into the new home.

Create a Dish Unpacking Station

Don’t just start tearing into dish boxes haphazardly. Set up a controlled unpacking area first:

Pick a roomy area like a dining room. Have large, cleared tables or counters handy for unwrapping.
Put down a soft surface protector like blankets or towels in case of drops. Carpeted rooms are ideal.
Have a large trash bin nearby for discarding used packing materials immediately.
Unpack on a day without time constraints. Rushing raises chances of breaking.
Open windows if possible. Fresh airflow helps reduce trapped musty odors.

An orderly unpacking environment prevents damaged dishes or added stress.

Unpack Boxes Gently

Unpack each dish box systematically:

Use box cutters to slice taped seams. Don’t yank open flaps hastily.
Inspect for hidden damage like punctures or crushed corners before removing contents.
Lift out dishes very gently. Keep padding wrapped around pieces until fully removed.
Unwrap cushioning paper slowly. Check for small items stuck in folds.
Place dishes directly into receptacles or shelving. Don’t set down haphazardly.
Put all discarded wrapping materials immediately into the trash bin.

Controlled, gentle box opening prevents damaging your dishes so late in the moving process.

Inspect for Damage

Inspect each unwrapped dish for any new defects:

Hold plates, bowls, glassware, and other pieces up to the light. Look for hairline cracks not visible head-on.
Turn dishes over and examine undersides and bottoms carefully. Feel for raised edges indicating chips.
Check rims thoroughly for chips, especially on fragile pieces like china teacups. Spin plates for full inspection.
Take glassware like wine glasses and run fingers along stems to detect cracks before use.

Catching damage early is key. Some flaws mean used items like glassware should be discarded to prevent hazard.

Wash Dishes Before Use

Wash dishes thoroughly before using, eating, or drinking from them after a move:

Even properly packed items collect dust, debris, and odors from packing materials, truck storage, warehouses, etc.
Use mild dish soap and soft sponges. Harsh scrubbers can scratch dishes already stressed from the move.
For musty glassware, let soak for 10-20 minutes ina mix of 2 tablespoons baking soda per 1 gallon of water to freshen.
Hand wash finer pieces with decorative patterns like china. Antique flatware may require polishing too.

Washing removes both dirt and that “packing peanuts” smell!

Allow Time to Settle In

Before filling cabinets, give dishes 1-2 days adjusting to the new kitchen:

Drastic temperature and humidity differences require gradual acclimation. Going straight from box to cabinet risks cracking or crazing.
Set boxes out open. As dishes adjust, you can start unwrapping and sorting items into piles: plates, bowls, mugs, etc.
Once adapted, dishes are ready for cabinets. Place piles into assigned cupboards and drawers.

It’s tempting to rush dishes into their new homes. But patience prevents breakage and repacking hassles down the road.

With a methodical approach, unpacking dishes doesn’t have to be painful. Follow these tips for a smooth transition into your new kitchen!

How to Find Replacement Dishes After Moving

Despite your best packing efforts, it’s possible dishes emerge cracked or chipped after a stressful move. Or perhaps a few favorite pieces got lost back at the old house. Either way,you may need to replace select dishware items to complete your new kitchen. Follow these tips for finding suitable dish replacements.

Check Local Thrift Stores

Secondhand and consignment stores offer inexpensive replacement dishes, especially for common everyday styles. Benefits of sourcing dishes locally include:

Ability to inspect condition thoroughly before purchasing.
Great for finding vintage pieces with charm.
Often discounted pricing compared to retail.
Quick acquiring of items since they’re already in stock.
Reduces environmental impact of manufacturing new items.
Learn about donated dishes’ origins from the previous owners.

Check thrift stores regularly as inventory continuously shifts. Let employees know what you’re hunting for too.

Search Resale Sites and Apps

Online platforms like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, and OfferUp are other options to find used dishes being sold locally:

Browse until you find someone selling the same or very similar dishes to your existing set.
If only one or two replacement pieces are needed, sellers often split sets.
Discussion with sellers provides details about condition, brand, etc.
No need to leave home. Can buy items for porch pickup.
Generally more affordable than retail prices.
Photos help gauge condition. Inspect upon pickup.

Cast a wide online net to increase chances of finding suitable dish replacements.

Look on Replacement Sites

Websites like Replacements.com and MissMatche.com specialize in selling replacements for dish patterns:

Upload photos of your dishes and the site matches the pattern.
Large inventories make finding even obscure dishes likely.
Individual pieces like a single salad plate are available.
Expert guidance provided in completing partial sets.
New replacement pieces sometimes available from manufacturers.
200,000+ patterns archived ensure extensive options.

While pricier than thrift stores, these sites offer hard-to-find dish replacements.

Repurpose Mismatched Dishes

Odd dishes like orphaned plates or singular bowls can become functional again:

Use plate stragglers as wall art hung using plate hangers. Create collages.
Mismatched plates work for crafts. Make mosaic trivets or a penny tile backsplash.
Extra plates become lids atop bowls of snacks. Or use to serve cupcakes and other single-serve foods.
Turn an eclectic mix of plates into a “picnicware” set for outdoor dining use.
Candy dishes, trinket trays, and desk organizers repurpose orphaned items.

With some creativity, every dish can serve new uses. Don’t toss strays!

Purchase New Dishes

For simple everyday dish sets, buying brand new matching replacements is straightforward:

Big box stores

How to Pack Dishes for Moving